Drug Addiction Signs

Anyone who suspects a friend or family member is using drugs should keep an eye out for the signs of a drug addiction. Those who can spot an addiction will be able to help their friends when they need help. Ideally, addicts will be placed in a treatment facility which helps them detox and prevents further drug use with help after the detox.

Drug Addiction Symptoms

Scars

Stealing

Paranoia

Pupil dilation

Poor attendance

Temper tantrums

Borrowing money

Change in attitude

Unusual mood swings

Change in appearance

Poor work productivity

Odor on body or breath

When a person suspects that someone they know is abusing drugs, he or she should confirm whether or not their suspicions are correct. In some cases, the person involved may be dealing with other issues. For example, they could be taking prescription medication to deal with a legitimate problem.

Once it has been confirmed that a person is taking drugs, the seriousness of the problem should be assessed. While using drugs is never good, some people are more addicted to drugs than others. A teenager smoking marijuana once a month is a different situation to an adult ingesting hard drugs on a daily basis.

In the former situation, the teenager could go on to be a healthy, drug-free member of society. In the latter, the adult could lose his or her job, family and relationship. The extent of the drug use will indicate how concerned observers can approach the problem.

Most people will not want help with their drug problem. Those who have just started taking drugs will usually not believe that they are addicted. Addicts who are severely dependent on drugs will be so focused on getting their next fix that they will not be concerned about recovery.

However, most addicts will realize that drugs are ruining their lives at some point or another. This is when they will seek help. It is worth noting that one cannot help those who do not want to be helped. Quitting drugs takes a certain level of commitment and motivation. Many addicts will not be prepared to put in the hard work until they understand what their addiction is doing to their lives.

Drug Addiction Treatment

When an addict agrees to get treatment, he or she has a few options available to them. They can enroll in an inpatient facility, seek outpatient treatment or go to a free service such as Narcotics Anonymous. Ultimately, their decision will be based on their budget and preferences.

Inpatient treatment is the most effective option as it isolates addicts from the outside world. During treatment, addicts will not be exposed to the people and environments that encouraged their drug use. This gives them a safe place to get clean and learn how to say no to drugs in the future. As these treatment centers have 24 hour medical staff, addicts will be able to deal with unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. This is essential as withdrawal symptoms often make addicts feel like recovery is too difficult.

An outpatient service is where the patient does not live at the treatment center. Instead they come in for appointments with therapists and other professionals. This service is cheaper than inpatient treatment.

People who are wondering how they will pay for their treatment should look at their current health insurance policy. Some comprehensive policies do cover drug rehabilitation. If an addict is not insured, they may need to get a loan. Those who cannot find funding will need to use a free service.